UPDATE: The department announced on its Facebook page Wednesday afternoon that after reaching out to event organizers, the event for Friday is canceled. However, because of the social media reach, police will still have an increased, visible presence that day.
POINT PLEASANT BEACH – There’s another “meetup” headed to a Jersey Shore town.
Point Pleasant Beach Police Chief Joseph A. Michigan released a statement via his department’s Facebook page, warning residents and visitors that a “beach party” has been advertised to take place noon to 9 p.m. June 29 on the Point Pleasant Boardwalk.
This “Summer Beach Meetup” is presented by a group calling itself Demon Brothers Ent., which has no noticeable social media presence.
That ad can be seen on several social media accounts of promised DJs performing, including @BandZJuiceUpKK, @G.Mallyyy and @Shaaaaad.
These events seek to get around regulations by simply saying guests should meet up at the same location at the same time. Unlike the Seaside Park event, this advertisement doesn’t seek a cover charge or send would-be guests to Eventbrite.
“[It] is possible we may see a large crowd for this unsanctioned event. There is no specific location for the event at this time, but the Police Department is monitoring the event very closely with the assistance of Local, County, and State agencies,” Michigan said.
The meetup in Seaside Park drew thousands, although officials pointed out there was a soccer event in neighboring Seaside Heights, as well as the usual summer visitors. Despite the swell in numbers, neither borough reported any significant jump in calls or crimes reported. Neighboring law enforcement departments were called in to help monitor those crowds.
“To ensure the safety of the residents and visitors of our town, the Police Department is taking every necessary step, and as a precaution, you should expect to see a very high presence of law enforcement on this date,” Michigan wrote.
